Oregon Trail Ruts

The Oregon Trail Ruts are deep, visible tracks carved into the terrain by thousands of wagon wheels over the course of the 19th-century migration. These ruts, located in southeastern Oregon near Salem, mark the historic path used by pioneers traveling west during the Oregon Trail era. Formed through years of repeated travel, they serve as a physical reminder of the arduous journey undertaken by those seeking new opportunities and fertile land. Today, the ruts are preserved as a historic site, offering insight into the perseverance and challenges faced by early American migrants.